Since 1847, the Diocese of Buffalo has been blessed with clergy, religious and lay people who have answered God's call and built an extraordinary network of institutions and organizations that minister to God's people. Parishes, schools, colleges, universities, religious education programs, hospitals, nursing homes, behavioral and mental health services, home care programs, social service agencies and other Catholic organizations provide the opportunity to celebrate God's love and to carry forward our divinely inspired mission.

As we move ahead in the third millennium, our strong Catholic identity will open the way for greater collaboration among Catholic organizations and institutions. Our common bond will strengthen us and ensure that God's people will be served.

May God, who has begun this good work in us, give us the wisdom and the courage to continue this tradition of Catholic service now and for all the years to come.